Step into Barbie Land: Unpacking the Star-Studded Barbie Movie Soundtrack Led by Dua Lipa’s ‘Dance The Night’

The cinematic event of the summer, Barbie, isn’t just bringing the iconic doll to life on the big screen; it’s also unleashing a musical phenomenon with its highly anticipated soundtrack, Barbie The Album. Kicking off this extraordinary collection of tracks is global pop sensation Dua Lipa with her electrifying single, “Dance The Night.” This lead track has set the tone for what promises to be one of the most talked-about albums of 2023, offering a vibrant, disco-infused glimpse into the whimsical yet thought-provoking world of Barbie Land.

As the opening text of Dua Lipa’s “Dance The Night” music video proudly proclaims, “This Barbie is making a music video.” And indeed, she delivers. The visual spectacle sees Dua Lipa, who also makes a cameo in the film as Mermaid Barbie, dazzling in a shimmery, disco-ready outfit, executing flawless choreography that perfectly captures the effervescent energy of the Barbie universe. The video is a visual feast, adorned with classic disco balls, glistening mirror ball women, and the signature pink Cadillac, all setting the stage for the glamorous, fun-filled world of Barbie.

Interspersed with Dua Lipa’s dynamic performance are captivating scenes from the upcoming Barbie film, specifically showcasing the unforgettable disco sequence where Margot Robbie, as the titular Barbie, and her fellow Barbies join the Kens for an exhilarating night of dancing. Director Greta Gerwig herself makes a playful appearance in the music video, adding a personal touch and further blurring the lines between the film’s world and its musical accompaniment. Her query, “Where is the giant disco ball?” hints at a deeper narrative thread, a mystery that unfolds throughout the video.

A pivotal moment in the “Dance The Night” video features Dua Lipa seemingly pausing time as she navigates through the aftermath of a dramatic event: the colossal mirrorball crashing to the floor. The video concludes with a whimsical shot of the “busted” decoration being carted away in a golf cart, while the reflection in a still-intact mirror shows two figures hastily fleeing the scene. This intriguing visual storytelling not only leaves viewers pondering the fate of the disco ball but also strongly suggests that “Dance The Night” is merely the overture to a larger musical narrative, hinting at subsequent music videos and storylines waiting to be unveiled from the expansive Barbie The Album.

Barbie The Album: A Star-Studded Musical Journey

The Barbie movie soundtrack is truly a monumental endeavor, boasting “new tracks from an unprecedented lineup of artists,” as stated in the official press release. This ambitious project, curated by the visionary duo of Mark Ronson and Kevin Weaver, promises a diverse sonic landscape that perfectly complements Greta Gerwig’s imaginative film. The album is designed to be more than just background music; it’s an integral part of the storytelling, guiding audiences through Barbie’s journey from her seemingly perfect plastic world to the complexities of the real one.

The Return of an Icon: Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice Join AQUA for “Barbie World”

One of the most talked-about collaborations on the album is undoubtedly “Barbie World,” featuring hip-hop titans Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice teaming up with the original purveyors of “Barbie Girl,” AQUA. This highly anticipated track is set to sample or interpolate the iconic 1997 hit, bringing a fresh, contemporary twist to a beloved classic. AQUA themselves spoke with HollywoodLife in 2022 about the enduring legacy of their debut album’s 25th anniversary and how their music extends beyond their most famous hit. This new iteration with Minaj and Ice Spice is poised to bridge generations, offering a nostalgic nod to fans of the original while introducing the catchy anthem to a new audience with a fierce, modern edge. Expect a playful, yet powerful, reimagining that will undoubtedly become a summer anthem.

A Kaleidoscope of Artists: Exploring the Diverse Tracks

Barbie The Album features an incredible array of talent, each bringing their unique sound to the Barbie universe. The tracklist is a testament to the album’s genre-bending ambition, ensuring there’s something for every musical palate:

• Lizzo (“Pink”): Known for her empowering anthems, Lizzo’s “Pink” is expected to be a celebratory and vibrant track, perfectly embodying Barbie’s signature color and her message of self-love and confidence.
• Charli XCX (“Speed Drive”): The experimental pop queen is set to deliver a high-octane, fast-paced track, likely reflecting Barbie’s adventurous spirit and her journey through various exciting scenarios.
• KAROL G (“WATATI” fr. Aldo Ranks): Adding a global flavor, this track is anticipated to infuse reggaeton rhythms and Latin American vibes, showcasing Barbie’s worldwide appeal and the film’s diverse soundscape.
• Tame Impala (“Journey To The Real World”): With such an intriguing title, Kevin Parker’s psychedelic rock project is expected to offer a more introspective and atmospheric piece, hinting at Barbie’s profound transition from her idealized existence to the complexities of reality.
• Dominic Fike (“Hey Blondie”): The indie-pop sensation is likely to bring his signature laid-back yet emotionally charged style, perhaps offering a unique perspective on Barbie’s iconic persona.
• HAIM (“Home”): The sister trio’s signature indie-rock sound, often tinged with nostalgia and heartfelt lyrics, could explore themes of belonging, displacement, or the search for a true home within the film’s narrative.
• The KID LAROI (“Forever & Again”): The young Australian superstar is expected to contribute a track filled with his characteristic melodic trap and pop-punk influences, likely delving into themes of enduring relationships or dreams.
• Khalid (“Silver Platter”): Known for his smooth R&B vocals and soulful sound, Khalid’s contribution could add a touch of sophisticated romance or wistfulness to the album, perhaps reflecting moments of luxury or contemplation.
• PinkPanthress (“Angel”): The rising British artist, with her unique blend of drum and bass, garage, and lo-fi pop, is poised to bring an ethereal and modern dreamlike quality to the soundtrack.
• GAYLE (“Butterflies”): The artist behind the hit “abcdefu” is expected to deliver an energetic and raw alt-pop track, potentially capturing the youthful excitement or anxieties of characters in the film.
• Ava Max (“Choose Your Fighter”): A pop powerhouse, Ava Max’s track is likely an empowering dance-pop anthem, a rallying cry for strength and self-determination, resonating with the film’s themes of agency and choice.
• FIFTY FIFTY (“Barbie Dreams” ft. Kali): The globally successful K-Pop group contributes with a track that promises their signature catchy melodies and dreamy vocals, further expanding the album’s international appeal and showcasing the aspirational side of Barbie’s world.

Ryan Gosling’s Unexpected Solo: “I’m Just Ken”

Perhaps one of the most delightful surprises on the album is the inclusion of Ryan Gosling, who portrays Ken in the film, performing his very own song, “I’m Just Ken.” While primarily known for his acting prowess in acclaimed films like Blade Runner 2049 and La La Land, Gosling is no stranger to the music world. He previously showcased his musical talents as part of the indie-rock band Dead Man’s Bones, alongside Zach Shields. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2009, featured haunting yet charming tracks such as “Lose Your Soul,” “In The Room Where You Sleep,” “Buried In Water,” and “My Body’s A Zombie For You,” demonstrating a distinct theatrical and often spooky aesthetic. This background makes his contribution to the Barbie soundtrack particularly exciting.

Fans are eagerly speculating on the tone of “I’m Just Ken.” Given Ken’s often-underestimated role in the Barbie narrative, the song could be a comedic power ballad, a surprisingly poignant reflection on identity, or an existential lament exploring his place in Barbie’s shadow. Gosling’s musical history suggests a performance that will be both unexpected and deeply engaging, potentially humanizing Ken’s character and adding another layer of depth to the film’s exploration of self-discovery.

The Unrevealed: Awaiting the TBA Tracks

Adding to the anticipation, Atlantic Records’ initial announcement of Barbie The Album revealed a 17-song track listing that notably included two songs listed as TBA (To Be Announced). This tantalizing mystery has only amplified the excitement, hinting at even more surprises in store for listeners. Could these unrevealed tracks feature other major artists, special cameos, or perhaps even instrumental pieces crucial to the film’s narrative? The secrecy surrounding these additions ensures that the album will continue to generate buzz and discussion long after its release, inviting fans to speculate and discover new musical gems.

As for the Barbiefilm itself, directed by the brilliant Greta Gerwig, it is poised to be a cultural phenomenon. Starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken, the movie promises a witty, visually stunning, and thought-provoking exploration of identity, expectations, and the complexities of the real world. The narrative, which reportedly sees Barbie and Ken venturing out of Barbie Land, is perfectly complemented by this eclectic and powerful soundtrack. The music serves not just as entertainment but as an essential narrative device, guiding characters and audiences through moments of joy, introspection, and transformation.

With its unprecedented lineup of artists, captivating lead single, and intriguing hidden tracks, Barbie The Album is set to be a defining soundtrack of the year. It promises to be a vibrant, diverse, and deeply engaging musical companion to a film that is destined to captivate audiences worldwide. Mark your calendars: both Barbie The Album and the highly anticipated film hit theatres on July 21, ready to immerse you in a world of pink, glitter, and profound discovery.